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Pardons versus Expungement

In the state of North Carolina, the expunction process is practically unavailable for those convicted of DWI charges. State law does not allow for expunction if a person above the age of 18 years old was convicted of a crime. As a result, a person may have the option to pursue a pardon if they want to improve their criminal record after a conviction.

The Difference between Post-Conviction Improvements

Expunctions are not generally available in the state of North Carolina for adults convicted of DWI. North Carolina allows a person to file for a record to be expunged if the charges have been dismissed or they were filed when the defendant was a minor. Most other crimes cannot be expunged from a criminal record. However, a person may work to obtain a pardon for their crimes. This has the following effect:

Improves the view of the individual in their community

Illustrates rehabilitation after a conviction

Does not affect sentencing according to North Carolina law

This does not erase the crime from that individual’s record. Instead, a pardon serves to improve how that individual is seen in the community.

Contact Us

If you have been convicted of DWI in the state of North Carolina, there may be legal options available for you to improve your standing as a community member. For more information regarding pardons and expunctions, contact Raleigh DWI attorney Jim Black at 919-600-4609.

"Jim, I just wanted to thank you again for everything you did for me. I am very happy about the outcome and would recommend you to anyone and everyone who has a DUI case. Two things that stuck out the most is your patience and honesty, you wanted the best for me and that was obvious." -J.M.